Lack of lifeguards at local swimming spots
Swimming pools across the Nahe region are grappling with staff shortages during the upcoming open-air season, particularly regarding lifeguards. Despite these challenges, most pools are expected to stay operational.
A notable example from last year saw outdoor pools in Ingelheim and Bingen closing two days a week due to staffing issues. According to the operator, Regionalbad Bingen-Ingelheim GmbH, three positions remain vacant, with the remaining gap being filled by temporary personnel from service providers. The company is also working on training new staff members for pool supervision.
In contrast, the Windesheim outdoor pool in the Bad Kreuznach district has replaced its pool attendants with a group of about ten lifeguards, with more in training. The supporting association offers free courses to become a lifeguard, with a lighter version of the certification requiring a two-hour theoretical session and practical training.
The private company "Barth Bath Service" has taken over operations in Bad Sobernheim, Meisenheim, and Rüdesheim but faces mounting difficulties each year in finding specialized staff. Managing Director Andreas Barth explained that if someone is sick, there is no backup available.
The Salinenbad in Bad Kreuznach currently faces issues in attracting young talent as lifeguards. While manageable for regular pool operation, the bath society emphasizes that increased supervision is required for water play equipment to be operational. The society is actively seeking trainees for vocational training as a bath operations specialist.
Sprendlingen and Mainz, on the other hand, seem less affected by these staffing issues. The operator of Sprendlingen’s outdoor pool reported a stable staff situation, while the Mainz Taubertsbergbad confirmed no staff shortages.
Staff shortages in swimming pools are commonly attributed to factors such as low wages, certification requirements, seasonal employment challenges, increased demand post-COVID-19 restrictions, and high stress levels. Potential solutions include improving wages and working conditions, offering training programs, implementing recruitment drives, providing incentives, and utilizing temporary staff during peak seasons. For the most accurate updates on the Nahe region’s pools, consult regional news sources or municipal websites for local sports and recreation departments.
In light of the ongoing staffing challenges, the Windesheim outdoor pool in the Bad Kreuznach district has focused on training new lifeguards to fill positions, offering free courses with a lighter certification requirement. Meanwhile, the private company "Barth Bath Service" operating in Bad Sobernheim, Meisenheim, and Rüdesheim continues to struggle in finding specialized staff, emphasizing the need for backup personnel to cover sick days.
